Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

IVP lets the radiologist view and assess the anatomy and function of the kidneys, ureters and bladder. It helps the radiologist assess abnormalities in the urinary system and see how a patient’s system can handle fluid waste. It can help doctors diagnose symptoms such as blood in urine, pain in side or lower back. It can also detect problems from kidney stones, enlarged prostate as well as tumors in the kidneys, ureters or bladder.

You may be asked to wear a gown, and you will need to take off any jewelry or other metal objects. This is an outpatient procedure that will last between an hour and four hours (depending on the speed your kidneys empty). You will be positioned on the table as still X-Ray images are produced. You will be asked to stay very still as not too blur the imaging. The number of images is dependent on your unique condition.

The contrast material is then injected by a vein the arm followed by further X-Ray imaging. You will feel a minor sting upon injection, and some patients experience a flush of warmth, mild inching sensation and/or metallic taste in their mouth as it beings to circulate. These are harmless symptoms and will disappear within a few minutes.

The contrast material will be processed by the kidneys and images will be taken at this point to determine the actual size of the kidneys and capture the urinary tract in motion as it empties. You may have a compression and on at this point to enhance the urinary structures leading from the kidneys. Near the end of the exam you will be asked to empty your bladder for additional imaging. Upon the completion of the exam you will be asked to wait to make sure all images have been captured.

The night before your exam you will be asked to avoid all food or drink after midnight. You may be instructed to take a mild laxative. Tell your doctor about any medications, allergies, recent illnesses or medical conditions, or if you are pregnant.